The Massachusetts Department of Public Health [DPH] issued an order on Thursday, October 22, prohibiting indoor ice rinks and ice skating facilities from operating from October 23, 2020 to November 7, 2020.
The order is in response to rising cases of COVID-19 connected to indoor ice hockey.
At least 30 clusters have emerged at rinks throughout the state following games, practices and tournaments. These clusters are connected to 108 confirmed cases and effected residents from over 60 municipalities in Massachusetts.
DPH intends the 15-day pause to allow time for the development of stronger COVID-19 protocols to further protect players, families, coaches, arena staff and other participants, as well as communities surrounding hockey rinks.
This order includes all indoor ice rinks and ice skating facilities in Massachusetts. These rinks and facilities may not operate during this temporary two-week pause. It is effective between 5 p.m. on October 23, 2020, and 12:01 a.m. on November 7, 2020. College and professional programs are exempt from this order.
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